rent a mansion – home rentals with a difference

Travel – 13 March 2013

To truly immerse yourself in a destination, stay in a private residence rather than a hotel. Make it a grand residence, and you can be Lady of the Manor – if only for a while.

Luxury home rentals, on land or sea, can be a great way to travel with family and friends. International holiday rental company HomeAway (homeaway.com.au), has over 495,000 home rental properties listed in 135 countries and you will find many amazing properties available to rent. Plus, if you have an idle holiday-house, you can list it on the site.

The team at HomeAway helped us compile this list of luxurious and tempting home rentals – so dare to daydream, or make a booking! For woman with drive readers, HomeAway is offering a special deal on a luxurious Morning Peninsula property which is at the end of this article. If you’re planning a big family get-away or special celebration, this deal is for you.

The Greek Islands

This five bedroom and five-bathroom villa in Santorini offers the ultimate Greek-island luxury escape. The architecture style is traditional organic Cycladic and perfect for those who covet a modern minimalist look. Prices range from $8682 to $13,792 per week. Visit: http://www.homeaway.com.au/holiday-rental/p895896

If you prefer Mykonos, this five bedroom, three-level villa might be just the ticket. The villa overlooks Elia Beach and incorporates warm stonework with the traditional white walls. Prices range from $6253 to $16,079 per week. Visit: http://www.homeaway.com.au/holiday-rental/p895893

Rent a Super-Yacht

Have you ever dreamed of owning a super-yacht? Well you can try before you buy, and rent this five-bedroom yacht in Barcelona Harbour. Prices range from $940 to $1460 per night depending on how many cabins you require. The yacht stays in the harbour however you can organise a charter trips if desired. Visit: http://www.homeaway.com.au/holiday-rental/p392882vb

Paris – dreaming of a Pied a Terre?

A huge property by Parisian standards, this 3552 sq.ft. duplex apartment is located in the Montorgueil area – right in the heart of central Paris and part of the Châtelet-Les Halles district. It has five bedrooms and five bathrooms, a large living room with dining room, and a fully-equipped kitchen. Prices range from $8933 to $11,485 per week?. Visit: http://www.homeaway.com/vacation-rental/p954349

If you prefer the left-bank, then this five bedroom, three-floor apartment with a rooftop terrace might be perfect. It was renovated in 2011 and you will surely feel oh-so-French here. Prices start at $863 per night and vary depending on how much space you occupy. Visit: http://www.homeaway.com.au/holiday-rental/p441707vb

Italy – your dream is available

In Venice you can rent this 16th-century Venetian nobleman’s home, with balconies that overlook a quiet canal. There are four bedrooms and bathrooms, a spacious kitchen, a library, and a fully equipped gym and a steam spa. Prices are $5104 for five nights. Visit: http://www.homeaway.com.au/holiday-rental/p949489

A 1700’s villa in Umbria might be more your style. This one has 10 bedrooms and 13 bathrooms, so there’s room for everyone! Prices range from $6087 – $11,666 per week. Visit: http://www.homeaway.com.au/holiday-rental/p879011

Closer to home

There are many luxurious properties to rent right here in Australia and we have a great offer from HomeAway at the Black Diamond Villa in Mornington Peninsula (VIC). If you have a big party or family get together planned, this might be just the ticket. Visit: http://www.homeaway.com.au/holiday-rental/p987588

For woman with drive readers, if you book the luxury Black Diamond Villa you will receive: